Gambling is when you risk money or anything else of value on an event with an uncertain outcome – whether that’s a football match, a scratchcard or a horse race. The decision to gamble is made based on the choice of what to bet on, matched with ‘odds’ set by the betting company – these indicate how much you could win if you’re right and lose if you’re wrong.
It is important to recognise that gambling involves risk, and people can become addicted to it. Problem gambling can have negative effects on relationships, finances and work performance. It can also have an impact on the person’s mental health, making them more susceptible to depression and other mood disorders.
Some people use gambling as a way to self-soothe unpleasant feelings and unwind. However, there are healthier ways of doing this, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble or trying relaxation techniques.
Some people also use gambling to socialise, as it brings people together who share a similar interest. However, this can be problematic for some, as it is easy to fall into a cycle of spending more and more money and getting into debt. The risk is higher for those who have a family history of addiction or other mood conditions. If you’re worried about a friend or loved one, there are organisations who offer support, assistance and counselling for people who have issues with gambling. They can help them to control their gambling, avoid it altogether or recover from the harm that it has caused.